Lessons learned at primary

A primary school has been deemed to have made ‘very good progress’ two years after inspectors suggested improvements be made.

When Education Scotland first inspected St Matthew’s Primary, in Bishopbriggs, in 2013, the school achieved three ‘good’ and two ‘satisfactory’ ratings.

At that time, inspectors highlighted the “strong direction and leadership” within the school, as well as noting that the children were “confident and highly motivated” and that staff were “actively embracing change”.

But the inspection report also recommended improvements in three areas.

Firstly, it asked the school to raise children’s attainment in literacy and numeracy through increased pace and challenge in learning and consistently high quality teaching.

Secondly inspectors wanted the curriculum improved, to provide progression and relevance and full supports children’s needs.

Finally, education chiefs were asked to continue to develop leadership at all levels, building on the good practice demonstrated by the senior management team.

East Dunbartonshire’s education committee heard last week how significant progress has been made in all areas.

The final follow through report says that there was clear evidence of improvement in attainment, supported by rigorous tracking and that the school was in line to continue that progress. It also highlighted the effectiveness of study programmes in maths and writing and very good progress among staff taking up leadership opportunities.

Committee convener, Councillor Eric Gotts, said: “Everyone at the school has worked very hard to build on their strengths and act on the recommendations. It is credit to them that such great strides have been taken.

“I’d like to congratulate everyone at the school on this positive report and thank both them and the council’s Education Quality Development Service for working so hard to achieve so much in a relatively short space of time.

“Everyone at St Matthew’s should be proud of what has been achieved and I am sure that they will all continue to build on this good news.”